This hijab-wearing bodybuilder is breaking stereotypes, won bodybuilding contest
Kerala: People were shocked when the name of a hijab-clad woman was announced the winner in the women’s category of the Mr. Kerala competition in Kochi recently.
Wearing a hijab and into professional bodybuilding, the 23-year-old Majiziya Bhanu from Kerala is breaking stereotypes.
Studying to be a dentist, Majiziya Bhanu has already won several laurels for power lifting. But her latest victory even came as a surprise for her.
"I was completely shocked when I won in the bodybuilding competition", Majiziya recalls. Majiziya won the best woman fitness physique at the Mr Kerala contest organised by body lifting Association.
With a smile Majiziya says she has a message. "I am comfortable with my Hijab. And I am pursuing whatever I want. I am grateful to my parents who have stood by me and my fiance. Women should be allowed to pursue their dreams. "
Awarded the title of the strongest woman of Kerala thrice by the state's Powerlifting Association, It's hard to believe that she began her power-lifting training only towards the end of 2016.
"She trains like a boy... I mean even boys don't train like she does. She has given her everything. It's not common to see women wearing hijab and training here. But she has overcome her difficulties", Shamaz, her gym instructor says.
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Udupi: Woman, bank employee arrested in property tax fraud case
Udupi: Udupi City Police have arrested two persons, including a woman, in connection with the alleged misappropriation of property tax funds belonging to the Udupi Municipal Council.
The accused have been identified as Shalini, who was working as a tax consultant outside the municipal office, and Ganesh, a bank employee.
According to police, Anand Suvarna had paid Rs 34,730 towards 12 years of property tax for his building in Kalmadi to Shalini on October 16, 2025. She reportedly issued him a receipt acknowledging the payment.
However, when Suvarna recently checked the status of the payment on the property tax portal, he found that the amount had not been credited and was still shown as pending. He then brought the matter to the notice of the Municipal Commissioner, who verified that the payment had not been recorded.
During questioning, Shalini allegedly admitted to the lapse. On February 16, 2026, she generated a new challan in Suvarna’s name and paid Rs 35,213 towards the dues.
Police said a case has been registered at the Udupi City Police Station against the accused for allegedly misappropriating tax money and defrauding the government by affixing the seal of Union Bank on the challan without remitting the amount initially received from the taxpayer.
Further investigation is under way.
